Black Beauty Eggplant: Classic Heirloom for Bountiful Summer Harvests
Discover the timeless appeal of Black Beauty eggplant, a high-yielding variety that has been a garden favorite for over a century. Introduced in 1902 by Burpee Seed Company, this heirloom cultivar quickly gained popularity for its faster ripening time compared to other varieties of its era. Black Beauty matures in just 65 days, producing large, bell-shaped fruits with a deep purple, almost black, glossy skin that epitomizes the classic eggplant look.
Black Beauty eggplants are prized for their versatility in the kitchen and robust flavor profile. The fruits, typically weighing 1-3 pounds, boast a creamy white interior with a mild taste that perfectly complements Mediterranean-style dishes. Their thin skin and dense flesh make them ideal for grilling, baking, or transforming into favorites like eggplant parmesan and ratatouille. The plant’s compact nature, reaching heights of 24-30 inches, makes it suitable for both garden beds and large containers, offering flexibility for various growing spaces.
These prolific plants can yield up to 12 substantial fruits per season, ensuring a bountiful harvest for home gardeners and market growers alike. Black Beauty thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, preferring warm conditions for optimal growth. For best results, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost, then transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures consistently reach 60°F (15°C).
Growing Success Tips:
- Provide consistent moisture and mulch to retain soil humidity
- Support plants with stakes or cages to prevent fruit from touching the ground
- Harvest when fruits are 5-6.5 inches long and skin is still glossy for best flavor
- Fertilize regularly with a balanced, organic fertilizer to support heavy fruit production
Black Beauty eggplant offers an unbeatable combination of classic aesthetics, reliable productivity, and culinary versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, this variety promises a rewarding growing experience and delicious harvests.
For an extra boost, apply fish and kelp emulsion throughout the growing season to enhance plant vigor and fruit development.
Product Features
- Heirloom variety introduced in 1902
- Matures in 65 days from transplant
- Fruits weigh 1-3 pounds each
- Plants reach 24-30 inches in height
- Yields up to 12 fruits per plant
- Full sun exposure required
- Well-draining, fertile soil preferred
- Plant spacing: 18 inches apart
- Row spacing: 24-36 inches
- Soil temperature for germination: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
Key Benefits
- Classic eggplant variety with timeless appeal
- Versatile for various cooking methods
- High-yielding for abundant harvests
- Compact plants suitable for gardens and containers
